Can Pearl Earrings Get Wet?

Pearl earrings can get wet occasionally, but they don’t like it. Repeated exposure to water will shorten their life and dull their shine.

Pearls are organic gemstones made from layers of nacre. That nacre is both delicate and slightly porous. As a result, water, chemicals and even sweaty skin can slowly wear away their surface over time.

The short answer is that a tiny bit of water won’t ruin them, but you should treat “wet pearls” as an accident, not a habit.

Why water is a problem for pearls

Pearls aren’t like diamonds or sapphires. They’re softer and their glow comes from microscopic layers that can be eroded. Water on its own isn’t the worst offender. It’s what water usually contains or the side effects of being wet:

Chlorine and pool chemicals can damage nacre quickly.
Saltwater can dry out Freshwater pearls leaving a residue that dulls their lustre. As for saltwater pearls, the saltwater ruins the silk which pearls are strung onto.
Soap, shampoo and shower gel leave a film that’s hard to remove without having them professionally cleaned, plus the aforementioned film will stop the pearls from soaking up the oils from your skin.
Hot water and steam can weaken the pearl's nacre and any glue or pearl cement holding the pearl in place.

Pearls also don’t love being soaked because moisture can seep into tiny drill holes or around settings, which gradually affects the structure or adhesive.

What happens if your pearl earrings get wet?

If it’s a small splash or caught in light rain, don’t panic. Pearls are worn on skin all the time, so they can cope with a little moisture. The risk comes with repeated wetting or long exposure.

Possible effects over time include:

Loss of lustre (they look chalkier or less “glowy”)
Surface wear or tiny pits
Discolouration
Loosening of the silk or setting as glue degrades

It’s slow damage, not instant doom, a bit like leaving a good leather bag out in drizzle. Once is probably fine. But over and over isn’t so great. You can read more in our guide to taking care of pearls.

How to look after pearl earrings if they get wet

If your pearl earrings do get wet, follow these steps:

Gently blot them dry with a soft, clean cloth. Don’t rub hard.
Let them air-dry fully before putting them away.
Never use a hairdryer or radiator. Heat can damage nacre.
If they were exposed to saltwater or chlorine, wipe with a slightly damp cloth first, then dry.

And if they constantly get wet, it’s worth having a jeweller check the settings.

Can you shower or swim in pearl earrings?

If we’re being honest, you should avoid it. Here’s why:

Showering: Warm chlorinated water + soap + steam is a triple-whammy for nacre and can weaken the pearl’s surface.
Swimming pools: Chlorine is harsh on pearls and also on the metal/prongs.
Sea swimming: Saltwater isn’t as aggressive as chlorine, but it still dries pearls out and leaves deposits.

If your earrings are valuable or you want them looking their best for years, take them out first.

What about everyday wear in the UK?

UK weather is basically “surprise damp” as a lifestyle, so here’s the practical view:

Rain: Fine if you get caught out briefly. Just dry them afterwards.
Humidity: Generally fine. Pearls prefer a normal, slightly humid environment.
Sweat: More of a concern. Sweat is mildly acidic and salty, so wipe pearls after wearing.

So, you don’t need to baby them to the point of never leaving the house. Just don’t let them stay wet.

The simple rule to remember

Pearls are “last on, first off.”

Put them on after makeup, perfume, hairspray and skincare, and remember to wash your hands after you have applied your make up and before you put your pearls on. . Take them off before showering, swimming, exercising or cleaning.

Need any other advice? Book a one-to-one consultation with a pearl expert from Coleman Douglas Pearls. We can match you with the perfect pieces and advise you on best practices for care.